By Junex Doronio
MANILA — With the growing awareness of the Filipinos on the incursions of Chinese vessels and harassment in the West Philippine Sea, China has resorted to the age-old tactic of divide and rule.
This was bared on Friday (01 Dec 2023) by National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año who claimed that China is creating “divisions” among Filipinos amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
“China’s multifaceted approach includes information operations that are specifically designed to create divisions within our nation, as we strive to unite the Filipino people in our stance on the West Philippine Sea issue,” Año said in a speech on Pag-asa Island.
The NSA visited Pag-asa Island to witness the inauguration of a newly constructed Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) building, a facility that will help effectively monitor activities near the island.
“It is critical for us to convey a powerful and united message that counters their falsehoods and eventually unites our fellow Filipinos in this important issue,” he stressed.
As he was delivering his speech, Año saw for himself at least 10 Chinese militia vessels, a China coast guard vessel, and a China Navy warship in the distance.
Año noted, however, that China’s bullying and harassment in the West Philippine Sea has brought about a “resurgence of patriotism” among Filipinos.
“Magkakaroon ng pagbabago sa mga unruly, bullying, aggressive behavior particularly ng China sa ating mga fishermen, sailor, Coast Guard na nagpa-patrol dito sa West Philippine sea. We are always prepared, we are not deterred and intimidated,” Año declared.
AFP Western Command chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos accompanied the NSA to the naval outpost on the island.
The Chinese Embassy has not yet sent its comment as of posting time on Friday (01 Dec 2023).
(AI/MNM)
